Research Associate (Experimental Physics)

Academic

Job Category

Faculty Non Bargaining

Job Title

Research Associate (Experimental Physics)

Department

Research | Berlinguette Lab | Department of Chemistry | Faculty of Science (Curtis Berlinguette)

Posting End Date

August 18, 2023

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the Posting End Date above.

Job End Date

Aug 31, 2024

Background

The Berlinguette Group at the University of British Columbia has an ongoing and ambitious research project that centres on exploration of lattice confinement fusion (LCF), i.e. nuclear fusion within the confines of a solid, such as Pd metal. The project aims to quantify how fusion reaction cross sections are affected by perturbations to the chemical and nuclear environment of the reaction feedstock. We are in the process of developing an experimental platform to generate precise, accurate, and repeatable data sets at incident particle energies between 0-50 keV. The experimental investigation of fusion processes in this largely unexplored research field will require the development of new measurement instrumentation and cutting-edge analysis techniques in order to inform the development of fundamental scientific theory.

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative researcher to join our multidisciplinary team and contribute to our research program as a Research Associate. This project faces a number of scientific and engineering challenges that include operando materials characterization, plasma characterization, condensed matter, nuclear, and particle physics simulation, detector and instrumentation development, and low-level signal processing. The role offers the opportunity to implement and improve cutting-edge and emergent technologies that address the practical and theoretical challenges of this unique research program.

Organizational Status

Professor Curtis Berlinguette (UBC Chemistry Department; UBC Chemical & Biological Engineering Department; Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute) leads a large and interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers that design and build advanced electrochemical reactors to power the planet. This position is part of a sub-team within the Berlinguette Group that studies nuclear fusion at low energy in solid-state materials. This sub-team specializes in developing materials of interest for such studies, as well as the development of a novel benchtop plasma fusion reactor that enables expansive studies in underexplored energy regimes for nuclear fusion.

Work Performed

The successful candidate will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary group of scientists, engineers, and software developers at UBC. This position is expected to contribute to project planning, engage in high-level communications with stakeholders, and provide valuable technical mentorship to other team members. The successful candidate may engage in the following activities:

Conduct experiments in the field of LCF, collate and analyze data; Contribute to the construction, assembly and calibration, modification, maintenance, and repair of equipment; Improve detector instrumentation (assemblies) for the characterization of fusion reaction products; Develop new experimental capabilities that enable operando characterization of fusion target properties; Design predictive analytical models and/or simulations to facilitate data collection and analysis; Contribute to the development of new experimental protocols, acquisition of equipment, and implementation of operating procedures of benefit to the research and laboratories; Mentor junior researchers and provide technical assistance and guidance to colleagues; Perform self-guided literature reviews relevant to the project; Communicate research through oral presentations, written reports, and peer-reviewed manuscripts; Contribute to the preparation of patent applications and grant proposals; Travel to undertake collaborative research experiments and attend technical meetings.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experimental fission or fusion research.
• A PhD in physics, engineering physics, or a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years additional experience in academia and/or industry working in at least one of the following fields:
• Development of precision measurement instrumentation.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working within a multi‐disciplinary team of scientific, engineering, and management personnel.
• Willing and able to occasionally travel internationally.
• Demonstrable track record undertaking hands-on laboratory research.
• Experimental nuclear, condensed matter, plasma, or particle physics;
• Demonstrable ability to work to milestones and manage deadlines in a collaborative environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Theoretical nuclear or plasma physics background.
• An understanding of the physical and electronic processes relevant to the generation and transmission of detector signals.
• Design & development of radiation generating devices;
• Experimental research in fission and/or fusion reaction characterization;
• Experience with plasma & particle physics simulation software relevant to the scope of this project (e.g. GEANT4, MCMP, VSIM, WARP, COMSOL, etc).
• Fabrication and characterization of metal-hydrogen systems.
• Proficiency with computer aided design packages for mechanical and/or electrical design work (e.g. Autodesk & Dassault software families).
• Experience implementing data analysis and/or acquisition solutions utilizing custom C/C++, Python, Labview, or equivalent code bases.
• Track record of high-impact first-author research publications and/or patents.
• Implementation of plasma systems;
• Nuclear physics;
• Demonstrable experience to design, machine and assemble components of experimental apparatuses.
• Hands-on research background in any of the following fields:

The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment of collaboration, creativity, and responsibility.

Salary Will Be Commensurate With Qualifications And Experience

Equity and diversity are essential to academic excellence. An open and diverse community fosters the inclusion of voices that have been under-represented or discouraged. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been marginalized on any grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code, including sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, racialization, disability, political belief, religion, marital or family status, age, and/or status as a First Nation, Metis, Inuit, or Indigenous person. UBC's strategic plan identifies inclusion as one of our key priorities. We welcome colleagues with the experiences and competencies that can contribute to our principles of inclusion, equity and diversity throughout campus life. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.